Parkinson's risk of melanoma 'higher than other patients'

People with Parkinson's disease are at a significantly higher risk of developing skin cancer melanomas, according to new research.

Analysis of 12 studies by US researchers showed that people with the condition are 1.5 times more likely to be diagnosed with melanoma than those without Parkinsons.

The findings, which are published in the American Academy of Neurology Journal, are not substantial enough to demonstrate a clear link between the two issues.

Lead researcher Honglei Chen explained: "Parkinson's disease patients in general have a lower risk for cancer, smoking-related cancers in particular, but they may have a higher risk for melanoma.

"One possible explanation for the link between Parkinson's and melanoma is that the two diseases may share some genetic or environmental risk factors."

Parkinson's remains a major health concern worldwide.

Researchers from Israel recently published findings in the Journal of Parkinson's Disease, which suggested there has been a significant increase in those diagnosed with the condition, based on purchases of anti-Parkinsons drugs.

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